Work

Idiopathic Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum in an Active Patient With Crohn’s Disease

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), often associated with colonic perforations or procedural interventions. This report details a case of a 30-year-old female with ileocolonic Crohn's disease (CD) presenting with idiopathic SPM during an acute CD flare while on prolonged corticosteroid therapy. Imaging confirmed pneumomediastinum without evidence of esophageal or colonic perforation. Conservative management with supportive care and prophylactic antimicrobials led to clinical resolution. This case underscores the importance of recognizing SPM as a potential extraintestinal complication of CD, particularly in the context of prolonged steroid use.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.82256

Authors: Jake A Cresta, Azfar S Syed, Jared S Magee, John G McCarthy

Institutions: Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Tripler Army Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Pneumothorax, Barotrauma, Emphysema

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: U.S. Department of Defense